The Ultimate Guide to Ice Castles
Create a magical experience at the Ice Castles in the Saint Paul area with our guide on the top activities.
Every year, the Saint Paul region features stunning ice spectacles, where unforgettable memories and Instagram-worthy moments await. Whether you’re looking for social media-worthy moments or planning family-friendly activities, the Ice Castles attraction has something for everyone. Icicle-filled archways, tunnels, cliffs, and caverns glow with vibrant lights at night, cultivating a fairytale-like setting. Located at the MN State Fairgrounds, the Ice Castles consist of can’t-miss winter light displays.
Plan Your Visit
Dates
January 16 - February 21, 2026
Hours of Operation
- Monday - 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
- Tuesday & Wednesday - Closed
- Thursday - 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
- Friday - 4:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
- Saturday - 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
- Sunday - 11:30a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
- Holiday - 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Location
MN State Fairgrounds | Hoyt Avenue W, Falcon Heights, MN 55108
Admission
Timed entry tickets are required.
- Peak Ticket Pricing - $18-26
- Off-Peak Ticket Pricing - $13-19
The Best Things to Do at the Ice Castles
Slide and Snow-Tube Through a Winter Wonderland
The Ice Chutes is a thrilling experience and involves descending through a winding polar-like scene. Participants must be at least 38 inches tall to ride the Ice Chutes. As for the younger thrill seekers, the Little Chutes are available for all ages and entail exceptional icy fun.
Marvel & Traverse Through a Grand Labyrinth of Ice
Channel your inner winter archaeologist at the Ice Castles. With more than 20 million pounds of ice, you’ll be transported to a whimsical and arctic-like space. Stroll through the ice caverns and challenge yourself to a frozen maze. Shimmy through narrow crawl tunnels, or take some time to admire and pose by the intricately hand-carved ice sculptures.
Keep an Eye Out for the Snow Queen & Winter Fairy
Calling all fairytale enthusiasts! Meet a regal snow queen and a winter fairy at the Ice Castles. Queen Everlight and Luna Frost will be creating a magical atmosphere for all visitors!
Warm Up at the Frost Bites Food Trailer
Treat yourself to a sweet or savory treat from Frost Bites Food Trailer. Pair a piping hot cup of cocoa or hot apple cider with a selection of waffle wands, tundra tacos, and cookies.
Enjoy Wintry Cocktails at the Frozen Tap
Order winter-inspired alcoholic delights from the Frozen Tap. A variety of creative cocktails can be found at this arctic bar including Fireside Boozy Cocoa, Hot Cocoa with Baileys, whipped cream and chocolate chips and Peppermint Hot Cocoa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the Ice Castles in MN this year?
The Ice Castles in Minnesota will be located at the MN State Fairgrounds, which is located at Hoyt Avenue W, Falcon Heights, MN 55108.
How long does it take to walk through the Ice Castles?
Visitors generally take around 30 minutes to an hour exploring the Ice Castles.
What is appropriate to wear at the Ice Castles?
Since the Ice Castles is an outdoor attraction, we recommend preparing for the chilly weather by dressing in thermals and insulated attire. Don’t forget to bundle up with ear muffs, gloves, scarves, and hats.
When is the best time to go?
The best time to visit the Ice Castles depends on your preference of activities and sights. If you’re seeking to visit during the day, the seafoam blue hues of the ice are accentuated by sunlight. The night, however, unveils an array of colorful LED lights that glimmer across the ice formations.
Is the Ice Castles attraction pet-friendly?
Service animals are the only pets that are permitted on the grounds of the Ice Castles.
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